New statewide figures from the West Virginia Child Advocacy Network indicate a rising demand for child protection services across West Virginia, with sexual abuse and drug endangerment among the leading concerns.
According to the data, nearly 46% of referrals to child advocacy centers involved allegations of sexual abuse. Another 17% were related to drug endangerment — a rate reported to be four times the national average.
Advocates say the numbers are fueling legislative efforts during the current session.
Del. Scot Heckert of Wood County has introduced a bill aimed at strengthening oversight of drug testing for parents involved in abuse or neglect cases. He said the proposal is intended to improve safety for children and respond to concerns raised by families and child welfare workers.
Another measure, sponsored by Del. Adam Vance of Wyoming County, would increase criminal penalties for child sexual abuse and for individuals in positions of trust who fail to report abuse. Lawmakers say West Virginia continues to rank among the highest in the nation for such cases.
Data from the Child Advocacy Network show that 96% of alleged offenders in 2025 were individuals known to the child, most often a parent, stepparent or immediate caregiver.
In addition to those proposals, lawmakers are considering other child welfare bills this session, including legislation to increase penalties when neglect results in a child’s death and a pilot program that would equip Child Protective Services workers with mobile devices to document abuse and neglect cases in real time.
Advocates say acknowledging the scope of the issue is an important step toward meaningful reform and stronger protections for children statewide.